Gear Shop Mechanic

Position Summary

The Gear Shop Mechanic is responsible for the assembly, repair, inspection, testing, and refurbishment of industrial power transmission equipment, including gearboxes, speed reducers, electric motors, couplings, and related mechanical components. Working in a shop environment, this position ensures all equipment is rebuilt to manufacturer specifications and Applied Industrial Technologies' quality standards.

The Gear Shop Mechanic is expected to accurately diagnose mechanical issues, perform precision assembly and disassembly, maintain a clean and organized work area, and consistently produce high-quality workmanship. This role works closely with the Inside Sales Manager, customers, and other shop personnel to ensure repairs are completed safely, on time, and within customer expectations.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of industrial mechanical repair, maintenance, or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience with gearboxes, speed reducers, electric motors, pumps, bearings, or rotating equipment preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read mechanical drawings, parts breakdowns, and service manuals.
• Experience using precision measuring instruments.
• Forklift and overhead crane experience preferred.
• Ability to lift 75+ pounds and work safely in an industrial environment.

Primary Responsibilities

• Equipment Repair
• Disassemble, inspect, clean, and evaluate industrial gearboxes, speed reducers, and rotating equipment.
• Diagnose mechanical failures and determine required repairs.
• Replace bearings, seals, shafts, gears, bushings, couplings, and other components.
• Assemble equipment to manufacturer specifications.
• Verify proper tolerances, alignment, preload, and clearances during assembly.
• Inspection & Troubleshooting
• Identify worn or damaged components.
• Measure critical dimensions using precision measuring tools.
• Inspect housings, gears, shafts, and bearings for wear or damage.
• Recommend repair or replacement options.
• Document inspection findings accurately.
• Testing & Quality Control
• Perform operational testing after repairs.
• Verify equipment operates smoothly and within specifications.
• Conduct final quality inspections before shipment.
• Ensure completed work meets Applied quality standards.
• Maintain complete repair documentation.

General Shop Operations

• Read and interpret work orders and repair instructions.
• Maintain accurate records of repairs and parts used.
• Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, presses, hydraulic equipment, and shop tools safely.
• Package completed repairs for shipment.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas using 5S principles.
• Assist with inventory organization and material handling.

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all Applied Industrial Technologies safety policies and OSHA regulations.
• Wear required PPE at all times.
• Safely operate lifting equipment and shop machinery.
• Report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Participate in required safety training.

Knowledge & Skills

• Mechanical troubleshooting
• Gearbox and speed reducer repair
• Bearing installation and removal
• Shaft and seal replacement
• Precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, dial indicators)
• Mechanical drawings and parts manuals
• Hydraulic and mechanical presses
• Forklift and overhead crane operation
• Strong organizational skills
• Problem-solving ability
• Attention to detail
• Computer skills for documentation and Workday training

Performance Expectations

A successful Gear Shop Mechanic consistently:

• Produces high-quality repairs with minimal rework.
• Accurately diagnoses mechanical failures.
• Completes repairs efficiently while maintaining quality.
• Maintains a safe and organized work environment.
• Follows all repair procedures and quality standards.
• Demonstrates strong attention to detail.
• Works effectively with teammates and shop leadership.
• Takes ownership of assigned work from inspection through final testing.

Core Competencies

The ideal Gear Shop Mechanic demonstrates:

• Mechanical Aptitude
• Attention to Detail
• Quality Focus
• Accountability
• Teamwork
• Safety Awareness
• Problem Solving
• Initiative
• Organization
• Continuous Learning
• Career Progression

A successful Gear Shop Mechanic is preparing for advancement into a Senior Gear Shop Mechanic, Gear Shop Lead, or other technical leadership roles by demonstrating:

• Expert diagnostic and repair capabilities.
• Consistent high-quality workmanship.
• Leadership in mentoring newer mechanics.
• Strong productivity and efficiency.
• Ownership of complex repair projects.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

What Success Looks Like

The best Gear Shop Mechanics take pride in restoring equipment to like-new operating condition. They understand that every repair impacts a customer's uptime and productivity. They consistently deliver reliable, high-quality repairs, maintain an organized and safe work environment, communicate effectively with the team, and help build Applied Industrial Technologies' reputation for technical excellence and dependable service.

Founded in 1923, Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE: AIT) is a leading value-added distributor and technical solutions provider of industrial motion, fluid power, flow control, automation technologies, and related maintenance supplies. Our leading brands, specialized services, and comprehensive knowledge serve MRO and OEM end users in virtually all industrial markets through our multi-channel capabilities that provide choice, convenience, and expertise.

Applied Industrial Technologies is built on a philosophy that puts people first.  We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to a workforce in which we enforce fair treatment and provide growth opportunities for everyone.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of age, race, color, national origin, genetics, religion, gender, marital status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.